I have the digital download copy of skyrim.
I run Vista 64x and use an Nvidia GPU GTX 560ti
there was no driver errors related to any graphics settings

the game would load up until the main menu and then shut down..

here is how I fixed it..

in my Audio manager my default audio sample rate was set to " 24 bit 192000 Hz " .. default

I switched it to " 24 bits 48000 Hz " default

the game started and runs normally ..

in Vista you should be able to find this control in your Audio manager control panel under " Default Formats " try using a lower format than whatever your current format is . I set mine to 48000 Hz and was successful at launching the game .


Hope this helps and saves people some time with trial and error reinstall of the game.